- English translation
His money's gone, and his name reeks into the bargain?
- Literal wording
His money going, and his honor giving off a smell?
- Meaning and lesson
The saying condemns a double loss. A person's wealth has drained away, and instead of gaining anything in return, his honor has been tarnished and scandal about him has spread like a bad smell. The money is gone, and so is his standing.
Underneath lies a judgment about how money should be spent. Losing wealth on generosity or worthy causes could at least bring honor. Wasting it on disgraceful ends leaves nothing but shame, which is what makes the loss truly regrettable.
- When it is used
Said as a reproachful, rhetorical exclamation about someone who has squandered money on shameful or frivolous pursuits, so that both purse and name suffered. It suits commentary on a spendthrift whose losses earned no credit, and could sting if aimed directly at the person. Its rhyming halves sharpen the rebuke.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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